HKG-CAR1920-1930

Hong Kong Annual Administration Reports, 1841–1941

COLONIAL REPORTS-ANNUAL.

Rope-Making, 1920.-The demand for Manila Cordage was not so good and the total turnover showed a falling-off from that of the previous twelve months. The high rate of exchange which ruled throughout the year adversely affected our business with gold standard countries to a large extent.

Cement Manufacture.-Although exchange ruled very high throughout the year, there developed a very good demand from all markets and prices rose all round. The turnover was a record one.

(ii.)—Under Chinese Management.

Tin.-During the year under review the volume of business transacted was large (about twice that of 1919) but, although the sterling price was as high as £421 10s. in the early part of the year and as low as £205 10s. towards the close, there was little variation in local prices over the whole year owing entirely to the vagaries in exchange.

Imports and Exports for the year, in round figures, were:—

Imports Exports From Straits 300 Tons To United Kingdom 3,600 Tons China 100 United States 5,300 Neth. Indies 300 Sundry Ports 300 Yunnan 10,100 China 27 Kwangsi 400 Japan 2,900 1,500 11,200 Tons 13,600 Tons

Rattan and Fibre Furniture.-In sympathy with practically all lines, 1920 was a bad year for these commodities. The value of Rattan and Fibre Furniture exported was about half of 1919. Seagrass declined to about the same percentage whilst Rattan core was worse, about 25 per cent. of 1919.

Native Tobacco.-Only a very small business was transacted during 1920, with declining prices.

Leather and Hides.-These showed a considerable decline; most dealers have lost money and are holding fairly large stocks.

Ginger and Preserves.-This trade was one of the worst during 1920; exports decreased about 70 per cent. in comparison with 1919.

Soy.-Only a small business was done and in small lots to regular centres.

Paper: Those interested in this line and who had stocks had a good year as prices rose about 25 per cent. in the beginning of this year, due to non-arrival of many orders. During the latter part of the year the market was plentifully stocked at lower prices, but, owing to exchange, local prices remained at the same high level with very little business.

Vermilion.-Very little done and much less than 1919.

Lard. The anticipated demand for 1920 did not materialise and business was bad—a great falling-off compared with 1919, although, at one time, the trade looked like reviving owing to heavy purchase from a new source.

Tinned Goods.—Trade was not as good as 1919.

Shamshoo and Vinegar.—The same remarks as above apply.